Day 5 of Patriots Training Camp was the long awaited first day in pads. While the contact was thump level, there was still some physicality specifically during drills.

The biggest story is the Christian Gonzalez injury but that aside, the Patriots had another solid practice. Adding the pads makes a big difference. We saw it and the players acknowledged it after practice.

Here are some observations from Day 5.

Christian Gonzalez Injury: Cornerback Christian Gonzalez limped off the field early in practice. He did not look like he was in a lot of pain but clearly losing Gonzalez on the first day of full pads is not a good sign. Depending on the severity of the injury, we may not see Gonzalez on Tuesday. We may not know the full extent of the injury until Mike Vrabel meets with the media on Wednesday. Chances are Vrabel won’t say much.

Ja’Lynn Polk Returns: Rookie wide receiver Ja’Lynn Polk returned to action on Monday, participating in the pads practice and immediately making an impact among the wide receivers. He caught a red zone touchdown and looked smooth getting in and out of his routes. Whatever injury was limiting his ability to participate in the first four practices seemed to be a non issue on Monday.

Offensive Line Play was mishmash: The pads make all the difference in the world when evaluating the offensive line and on Monday, we got a pretty good luck at just how physical the Patriots offensive line could. The first unit in particular impressed in team periods. The second and third units however left a lot to be desired. First-round pick Will Campbell had mixed results—holding his own at times but also getting beaten by Keion White in one on one’s. To Campbell’s credit, he also won some reps against White. Campbell certainly looks like he belongs but the arm length did come into play on a couple of reps.

Maye continues to look comfortable: Drake Maye had another strong practice and his comfort level in Josh McDaniels system is evident. He got the ball out quick against pressure and showed good timing and anticipation on throws in the red zone. Perhaps the biggest takeaway thus far in this camp with Maye. He is taking care of the football.

Wide Receiver Group: As mentioned, Polk had a strong practice. Pop Douglas continues to impress and he has arguably been the team’s best receiver thus far in training camp. Kayshon Boutte has also had a strong camp. His route running has improved and he is routinely winning in contested catch situations. For all the flack he gets, Boutte is making a statement in regards to him making the team.

Defensive Dominance in Drills: The defense dominated in 1-on-1 periods. Now before you get too excited, remember. The defensive always ahead of the offense and the Patriots finally have some athletic, explosive players on defense that can match up. One important to mention. Defensive tackle Milton Williams got mucked several times in run game situations during team. Again. It was the first day in pads. I would not read too much into it.

Kicker Battle: Rookie Andres Borregales and John Parker Romo both got an opportunity to kick and both made their kicks when given the opportunity. Parker Romo went 6 for 6 from between 35-45 yards. He has a strong leg and is accurate. He will not concede the job that easily.

Overall, Day 5 was a productive practice and the Patriots got some good work in. The Gonzalez injury is concerning but overall, the team continues to develop and make great strides. Mike Vrabel did say that the team will scrimmage during Friday night’s in-stadium practice.